Journalist Dan Woffenden has slammed the ‘blatant decision’ ignored by referee Peter Bankes which went against West Ham United as they faced Southampton this afternoon.
The Lowdown: Disappointing result
The Hammers held out for a disappointing draw as Declan Rice equalised with a dazzling shot from 20 yards out after playing a quick one-two with Said Benrahma.
Despite the equaliser, the result was made all the more galling for David Moyes and co as the Saints’ goal, which came from Romain Perraud after 20 minutes, was laced with controversy.
The Irons argued that Kyle Walker-Peters’ foot appeared to be over the line for when he took the throw-in which led to their goal, with further shouts claiming that the referee impeded Jarrod Bowen from getting the ball moments prior.
The Latest: Woffenden’s claim
Woffenden slammed the referee’s decision to allow the goal, with the alleged impediment coming from Walker-Peters’ throw-in.
Taking to Twitter, the Irons-supporting journalist fumed: “Absolutely no surprise to see that West Ham have had a blatant decision go against them once again. The standard of officiating in the Premier League declines every week. Shambles.”
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The Verdict: Needed three points
With the chance to climb several places in the Premier League table, a point will come as a huge disappointment for David Moyes’ side, ending a run of four successive victories in all competitions.
With the Saints in the relegation zone and manager Ralph Hasenhuttl reportedly close to getting the sack, this felt like a must-win game for the Hammers, who now sit 11th in the league table.
After such a poor start to the season, three points at St Mary’s would have solidified West Ham’s form going into the final month of the campaign before the start of the World Cup.
Therefore, an apparent mistake by the refereeing team will come as a painful wound for the Irons, who were on the wrong end of a controversial call not for the first time in the season.